It took unprecedented rider input and countless miles of road tests. But now, the feeling that comes from being in
the saddle is so strong that, if it wasn’t for the new Reflex® linked brakes with ABS, you might not ever be able to stop.
Introducing Project RUSHMORE and the next Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. Built by all of us, for all of us.

To book your personal test ride today, visit harleycanada.com/testride
With the purchase of any new Harley-Davidson® model from an authorized Canadian Harley-Davidson® Retailer, you will receive a free, full one-year membership in H.O.G.®
Always ride with a helmet. Ride defensively. Distributed exclusively in Canada by Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada, Richmond and Concord. Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada is a proud sponsor of Muscular Dystrophy Canada.

HEAR NO EVIL.

The all-new Street Glide® Special

Download the Blippar
App to interact with this ad.

You’re looking at the first fully integrated motorcycle audio, GPS and phone system that works by touchscreen or voice
command. Tell it to play a song, find gas, or ignore the boss’s call. You don’t need any interruptions when you’re answering
the call of the road. Introducing Project RUSHMORE and the next Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. Built by all of us, for all of us.

WELCOME / SPRING 2014
“THE WAY TO GET STARTED IS TO QUIT TALKING AND BEGIN DOING.” – WALT DISNEY

“You’re completely in contact
with it all. You’re in the
scene, not just watching it
anymore, and the sense of
presence is overwhelming.”
– Robert Pirsig
HOG® MAGAZINE CANADA IS PUBLISHED
BY THE HARLEY OWNERS GROUP® CANADA

SEND US YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS TO:
EDITOR@HOGCANADA.CA
HOGMAGAZINECANADA.CA
HOG® MAGAZINE CANADA FEATURES SOME
CONTENT FROM THE US EDITION OF HOG® MAGAZINE, UK AND
AUSTRALIAN EDITIONS OF HOG® MAGAZINE.

THE CANADIAN EDITION IS PUBLISHED BY:

DUST OFF THE COBWEBS ... AND JUST
RIDE, BABY!
SPRING. Leaves return to the trees, birds come back home from the South, and thoughts of
the open road beckon. But before you can feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, your
motorcycle needs some TLC from its annual hibernation. This is normally done by dusting off the
cobwebs, bringing out the bucket and hose, and giving your bike a good ol’ fashioned wash and wax.
More importantly, you will also want to make sure that it is mechanically sound and ready to go!
The best way to ensure you are ready to rock and ride is to count on your authorized Canadian
Harley-Davidson® Retail Store to bring your bike up to speed (no pun intended!) for your new season
of adventure. Although you may have been tinkering with your own wrenches for many years, your
H-D® certified team have more experience, training, and tools than all of us combined! As good as
you treat your bike, I bet they still do the best job of keeping it in proper shape.
This is also the perfect time of year to start planning
your next adventures for the upcoming riding season. The
“IT’S EXCITING AND FUN
best way to stimulate this thought process, of course, is
to review all the upcoming events for 2014. And right on
TO ARRIVE AT A PLANNED
cue, this issue has all of the info you need. These include
EVENT TO SEE ANYWHERE
the 2014 Regional, Provincial, and Canadian National Rally
FROM 50 TO 1500 OTHER
information (see pages 51 and 54), upcoming Canada Pin
HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
Stops (see page 14), and U.S. State Rally dates (see page
52). This should be enough to get your creative activity
RIDERS ... ”
calendars started and your travelling juices flowing!
It’s exciting and fun to arrive at a planned event to see
anywhere from 50 to 1,500 other Harley-Davidson® motorcycle riders, who are all there to share
a similar experience. After all, it is all about the experience, friendship, camaraderie, fun, and of
course the riding.
Take a personal moment to reflect on the reason why you love to ride – whether it’s the feeling
of flying or the freedom from cages, the camaraderie of other riders or connecting to a machine so
completely that it seems to disappear beneath you. Perhaps Robert Pirsig said it best in Zen and the
Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: “You’re completely in contact with it all. You’re in the scene, not just
watching it anymore, and the sense of presence is overwhelming.”
- Gina McNeil

Question of the day:
Where will the revolution
of your tires take you this
New Year?

As you plan your riding itinerary for 2014, consider a once-in-a-lifetime road trip, or for many (based
on the stories I receive), a repeat of an unforgettable trip. As Harley-Davidson® motorcycle riders, we
don’t settle for the mundane. Even on the most familiar of commutes, every day presents us with new
situations, new variables, new emotions. But it’s when we really cut loose and push ourselves outside
of our perceived comfort zone that the most spectacular experiences tend to happen. We all love the
rush of freedom we get from finding a new favourite road, or from the awestruck looks on the faces of
passers-by as we rumble on through. So why not make 2014 the year of unforgettable road trips? The
2014 H.O.G.® Touring Handbook is a great place to start; it contains the most current H-D® Retailer
locations, featured scenic rides, and motorcycle laws for all of North America. If HOG® Magazine Canada
isn’t enough inspiration, you can always visit The Great Rides Directory on www.hogmagazinecanada.ca,
where we pinpoint various stops along some of the roads most travelled by our fellow H.O.G.® members.
While you are all out there creating life-long memories on your hogs, please consider sharing those
experiences by submitting an article to HOG® Magazine Canada along with some great photos, for which
you will receive a newly minted H.O.G.® Staff Photographer Pin (see page 65 for details). Ride long, ride
safe, but most importantly … ride!
Duarte Pita
Editor, HOG ® Magazine Canada

LET’S GO ARGOS

they will get it back in 2014!

I found the article by Dustin
Woods, “Destination Distillery
District” in the Fall 2013
edition of HOG® Magazine
Canada, a wonderful read,
as it reminded me what a
wonderful city I’m fortunate
enough to live just to the north
of, and sadly don’t visit often
enough. The Distillery District
is definitely an area of the city
that everyone should make
a point of exploring, and I
must get back there soon to
enjoy it again. However, it is
abundantly clear that Dustin
is NOT a football fan, and I’m
certain that many fans like
myself took exception to his
misinformed comment, “how
to overhaul each and every
one of our losing professional
sports franchises.” The Toronto
Argonauts have won the Grey
Cup championship a record 16
times, most recently in 2012,
and although they missed their
opportunity in 2013, I’m certain

Mike Gorman
Sharon, Ontario

STAY DRY, STAY SAFE
In the Winter 2014 edition of
HOG® Magazine Canada, Becky
Tillman writes in “Easy Does
It”, “… you may not mind your
jeans getting a little wet if
it’s warm out.” I have a friend
who got caught in the rain on
his way home from work and
decided to continue without
donning his rain gear. He came
to a stop in traffic and put his
feet down. When one wet leg
got too close to the exhaust
pipe, he received a severe
steam burn in an instant. This
might be a good safety tip to
pass on to fellow riders – wet
pants and hot pipes don’t mix!

when the rain starts: your
hands! It’s very difficult to ride
when your hands are cold and
begin to hurt. If you don’t have
waterproof gloves, a pair of
latex or nitrile gloves under
regular gloves will work in a
pinch. Always carry more than a
single pair because your riding
buddies will want some when
they see you wearing them.

annually to Europe on business,
but I always make an effort to
rent a motorcycle even for as
little as a day to simply take
in the scenery and fresh air.
The rental process is always
simple, the dealers are always
friendly and helpful, and in
most locations, the riding gear
is included!
Sent anonymously via email

P. McMilin
Sent via email

EUROBOUND RENTALS
After reading the article
“Dream to Ride, Ride to Dream”
in the Winter 2014 edition
of HOG® Magazine Canada, I
couldn’t help but write in to
say that I too have encountered
nothing but great experiences
with all my rentals. I travel

W. Droom
Sent via email

EASY DOES IT
In “Easy Does It,” there’s no
mention of what first gets wet

We welcome all letters and feedback to HOG® Magazine
Canada. Letters should be 100-150 words. E-mail your feedback
to editor@hogcanada.ca and put “Intake” in the e-mail subject.
Include your name, telephone number and e-mail address.
We reserve the right to edit submissions for length and clarity.

hog® magazine canada

7

BACKSTAGE /

8

hog速 magazine canada

SPRING 2014

PIMP MY RIDE
Customizing your Harley-Davidson®
motorcycle is all about fit, function, style,
and performance. From the bars, to the seat,
to the back tire, H-D1™ Customization allows
riders to design a personal fit and style ride
to reflect their body type, style, and attitude.
See page 48 for more on the fine art
of customizing your Harley-Davidson®
motorcycle.

Photograph courtesy of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company Archives. Copyright H-D.

hog® magazine canada

9

Take Our Rewards for a Test Ride
Best Western® has been known for many years as the heart and soul of Canadian hospitality and travel. We care
about what riders want in a hotel - that’s why we created our free Best Western Ride Rewards® program designed
for Harley-Davidson® enthusiasts. H.O.G.® members are automatically upgraded to Platinum Elite status, so you’ll
earn free nights even faster.
Staying with us allows you the freedom to ride across the country to
over 100 Rider-Friendly® hotels in Canada*, so you’re sure to find a
Best Western that’s right for your ride.
We invite you to Stay with people who careSM
and start earning your rewards.

NEW KID ON THE
BLOCK – HARLEYDAVIDSON® OF NYC
The huge new HarleyDavidson® of NYC flagship
showroom took vision.
Architect Sean Karns of Jordan
Parnass Digital Architecture
has blown out the old David Z.
shoe store, adding massive
windows along Broadway and
White, a motorcycle lift that
runs between the ground
floor and the floor below, a
dramatic central elevator, and
a coffee bar in front. The total
space is 17,000 square feet,
and yet it almost feels bigger.
While there’s another HarleyDavidson® of NYC showroom
in Long Island City, Manhattan
has been without one for
quite some time, since when
someone other than Avi Jacobi
owned the dealership. While
this showroom is definitely
about the bikes – some
models are available here

12

hog magazine canada
®

and nowhere else, and you
can “design your own” bike
on touch-screen kiosks – it’s
also about Harley-Davidson®
merchandise, from helmets to
jackets, t-shirts, accessories,
and teddy bears. Even bikers
need a cuddle now and then.
nycharleydavidson.com

HARLEY-DAVIDSON
OPENS FIRST
VIETNAM
SHOWROOM
The iconic Harley-Davidson®
motorcycle was first made
popular in Vietnam in Saigon
(now Ho Chi Minh City) during
the American war in the 1960s.
Recently the bike has become
a serious favourite on Hanoi
streets. Today, the showroom

in the Phu My Hung District
7 urban area of Ho Chi Minh
City displays 27 variations of
five motorcycle models – the
Sportster®, Dyna®, Softail®,
VRSC™, Touring, and Custom
Vehicle Operations™.
Vietnam opened its market
to motorcycles of over 150 cc
in 2008. However, the issuing
of driving licences for large
motorcycles has been very
limited, a situation which will
change beginning March 1,
2014. The Ministry of Transport
has removed regulations on
providing special A2 licences
for motorbikes with an engine
capacity of more than 175 cc.
This licence was previously
limited to specific applicants,
typically police officers,
military personnel, and
motorsport athletes. vietnam.net

THE ULTIMATE
FIGHTER® NATIONS:
CANADA VS.
AUSTRALIA

Deeley Harley-Davidson®
Canada is once again
partnering with the UFC® as
proud sponsor of The Ultimate
Fighter® Nations: Canada vs.
Australia, presented by Xbox
One. The series, which began
airing in January, pits up-andcoming MMA fighters from
Canada and Australia against
one another in a showdown to
determine who is The Ultimate

Fighter. The winner will be
rewarded with a six-figure
contract with the Ultimate
Fighting Championship®
(UFC®).
“If guys thought fighting
in the toughest tournament
on television was hard,
imagine how they feel doing
it with a whole country on
their shoulders,” said UFC®
President Dana White.
Filmed just north of
Montréal, the series will
feature 12 episodes, airing
Wednesdays, with each
episode’s winner advancing
in the single elimination
tournament, culminating in
a three-hour finale. Team
Canada is coached by UFC®
veteran Patrick Côté, a native
of Rimouski, Quebec, who had
a successful nine-year career
in the UFC®, including a title
fight against middleweight
champion Anderson Silva.
Team Australia is coached
by another UFC® veteran,
Kyle Noke.

“AS THE ONLY
MOTORCYCLES
WORTHY OF
BEING INSIDE
THE OCTAGON...”
“As the only motorcycles
worthy of being inside the
Octogone®, Harley-Davidson®
is proud of our association
with the UFC and TUF Nations
and as a Brand built around
fulfilling dreams of personal
freedom, we are excited to
help launch the career of one
of these young MMA fighters,”
explained Brad Jandrew,
Marketing Director, Deeley
Harley-Davidson® Canada.

MOVEMBER 2013:
A LITTLE HAIRY ...
AMPLE SUPPORT
Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada
has joined forces with Movember to
help change the face of men’s health.
As one of two major partners of this
worthy cause, ambitious goals were
set for this year’s campaign. The
response from H.O.G.® members,
Retailers, Associates, families, and
friends has been incredible! The
campaign launched in October 2013
with the inaugural Legends Grow Ride
in support of Movember, with rides
taking place from coast-to-coast. By the end
of the campaign the Harley-Davidson® network
across Canada included the participation of 585
Mo Bros and Mo Sistas. Together, this group,
along with the corporate contribution of Deeley
Harley-Davidson® Canada, has helped to raise
over $220,000. Overall, the Harley-Davidson®
network ranked 9th in Canada.
Once again this year, Canadians’ support of
Movember was unmatched. Canadians have
raised over $31 million at press time, the most of
any country. As a major partner, Deeley HarleyDavidson® Canada was involved in sponsoring
several key Movember prizes, including the
$100 draw for a 2014 Harley-Davidson® Fat Bob®
motorcycle. It appears that the Harley-Davidson®

motorcycle has found a deserving home with this
year’s winner, Ryan Parnell, who captained the
Team Telus Mo Bros. Having lost three family
members to prostate cancer, Movember is a
cause that resonates deeply with Ryan. “I’ve been
involved with Movember for eight years, and I
know that the conversations I’ve had and support
I’ve received from my colleagues, family, and
friends has made a real difference.” Ryan’s team
raised almost $9,000, with Ryan contributing just
over $1,100 to that total. Congratulations Ryan –
you are a true legend!

GO ANYWHERE ... WITH YOUR
HARLEY-DAVIDSON® MOTORCYCLE!
MOTORCYCLE SHIPPING NOW AVAILABLE IN CANADA TO FULL AND FULL-LIFE MEMBERS ONLY.

2014
H.O.G.®
CANADA
PIN STOPS

H.O.G.® members can pick
up a free commemorative pin
and chat with H.O.G.® Canada
staff at selected motorcycle
events. You must be a national
H.O.G.® member with a valid
membership card and visit our
pin distribution area during the
stated hours for the event.

The stress-free way
to ship your bike almost
anywhere in the world!
Whether you’re taking a riding
vacation, attending a Rally,
or relocating, H.O.G.® gives
you the options to safely and
affordably transport your
Harley-Davidson® motorcycle.
But you will need to be sure
to take the steps to clear
customs regulations.

life H.O.G.® members who need
to ship their Harley-Davidson®
motorcycles. Your uncrated
motorcycle can be shipped
anywhere within Canada, the
continental U.S., and Hawaii
(Honolulu), with no additional
charges for crating. Contact
Federal Motorcycle Transport
for your next vacation, Rally, or
when buying and/or selling your
motorcycle – they can help!

SHIPPING WITHIN CANADA,
THE USA, AND HAWAII
Federal Motorcycle Transport,
an agent for STI, one of
the leading transportation
companies in America, offers
special rates to full and full

MOTORCYCLE SHIPPING
OUTSIDE OF CANADA AND
THE USA
Federal Motorcycle Transport
can also arrange the
transportation of your
motorcycle outside of Canada

and the USA and are able to
arrange one-way or roundtrip transportation of your
Harley-Davidson® motorcycle to
wherever your final destination
may be. Federal operates both
ocean and air freight services.
For information or to arrange
transportation of your HarleyDavidson® motorcycle, and
to inquire about the services
and rates available to H.O.G.®
members, simply contact
Federal Motorcycle Transport
at 1 866.848.5089 (toll free
within Canada and the U.S.);
309.694.4500, ext. 2217 (outside
Canada and the U.S./local calls);
visit funtransport.com or email
jennifer.gibbs@federalcos.com.

KEEP FIRING ON
BOTH CYLINDERS.
RENEW YOUR H.O.G.速 MEMBERSHIP.
AND GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLE.
Get the full-on, thundering Harley-Davidson速 experience with exclusive rides, a network of
like-minded independents and a bunch of other perks that help you get every last towncruising rumble out of your Harley-Davidson速 motorcycle. RENEW TODAY AT HOG.COM/RENEW.
息2014 H-D or its affiliates. H-D, Harley, Harley-Davidson, H.O.G. Harley Owners Group, and the Bar & Shield logo are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC.

Take a little trip with me. It was 1977. Disco was hot, and bell-bottoms were the
in thing. Harley-Davidson Motor Company was more than halfway through
its tumultuous relationship with AMF, and times were tough – especially for
the automotive and manufacturing sectors and for gritty rust-belt towns like
Milwaukee. And then, along came the Low Rider® motorcycle.

YCLE

Story by MATT KING

A

lthough Harley-Davidson had invented
the Factory custom concept a few
years earlier with the Super Glide®
motorcycle, which married the narrow front
end of the Sportster® model with the beefy
chassis and Big Twin engine of the FL family,
the styling of that model’s original fibreglass
boat tail seat and fender was somewhat
polarizing. But when the Low Rider®
motorcycle hit the scene with its blacked-out
engine, slim 3.5-gallon fuel tank, drag bars,
low two-up seat, 9-spoke mag wheels, and
signature slash-cut two-into-one exhaust,
it quickly became a top-selling model. The
Super Glide® motorcycle is the bike that
launched the Factory custom segment, but
the Low Rider® motorcycle made it a sales
success. The Low Rider® motorcycle soldiered
on in the Harley-Davidson® lineup for the next
three decades, retaining many of its signature
style cues, and of course, its key feature: the
low-slung seat that makes the rider feel as if
he’s sitting in the bike, rather than on it.
In 2009, the Low Rider® model was dropped
from the lineup, but now it’s back in a form
that pays full homage to its roots as a low,
lean hot rod cruiser that knows every street.
Many key style features of the original
1977 FXS Low Rider® model are back
too, including the two-into-one collector
exhaust, chunky cast-aluminum wheels,
wrinkle-black console, eyebrow over the
headlamp, and black cut-outs on the rear
fender struts. Even the pattern on the seat
upholstery is a throwback.

hog® magazine canada

23

RISE TO THE
CHALLENGE

The Low Rider® motorcycle’s
adjustable risers can be adjusted
through a 2.4-inch range to fit a wide
variety of riders.

The Dyna® platform has
always represented Big
Twin performance within
the Harley-Davidson® line.
To secure that heritage, the
new Low Rider® model is
equipped with dual front disc
brakes, a throaty exhaust tone,
stacked console-mounted
speedometer and tachometer,
and re-calibrated suspension.
And nestled in the frame is a
black and chrome Twin Cam
103™ powertrain that packs
a punch. The Low Rider®
motorcycle is a bike that will
be ridden hard and parked
dirty, a bike for the kind of
rider who heads out for the weekend with just a
bedroll and a wad of cash.
With its low seat height, the Low Rider®
model was also popular for shorter-statured
Customers who wanted to experience the
power and performance of a Big Twin model.
An important goal with the new Low Rider®
model was to expand that comfort envelope
to accommodate the widest possible range
of riders without requiring the purchase of
accessories – the 5’1” to 6’1” (155-185 cm)
tall target represents riders ranging in size
from the fiftieth percentile of Japanese women
to the ninety-fifth percentile of American
men. Getting there required some intense
application of the science of ergonomics.
Three key features make it possible for so
many riders to enjoy a comfortable fit on the
Low Rider:

24

hog® magazine canada

> Adjustable Riser: The handlebar can be
adjusted through 2.4 inches of range, to not
only reach the controls, but reach them in
comfort.
> Footpeg Location: The footpegs are located
2 inches forward compared to their location on
the current Dyna® Super Glide® motorcycle, a
position that provides the best combination of
rider comfort and cornering control. This also
makes it easier for many riders to place their
feet on the ground.
> Two-position Seat: The new seat comes
with a removable bolster that positions
the rider 1.5 inches further forward. It can
be removed easily and leaves behind an
attractive seat with standard ergonomics.
Inspired by the mag wheels of the original
FXS, the new model’s cast-aluminum split
5-spoke wheels feature a deep black finish

and machined highlights. These wheels
are standard in North America, with laced
wheels offered as a Factory-installed option
(laced wheels will be standard in some export
markets). A new two-tone paint scheme is
topped with a bold Harley-Davidson® tank
graphic; the seat has a modern perforated
cover stitched in that classic pattern.
Contrasting chrome and black highlights on the
fender struts and battery box, wheels, eyebrow
and headlamp shell, and engine complete the
retro styling theme. A grenade-style ignition
switch is an additional cool feature.
With a starting price of $17,429 the new
Low Rider® motorcycle brings an icon back to
the Harley Davidson® lineup in an affordable
package that makes it one to meet. For more
information on the new 2014 Low Rider®
motorcycle, visit h-d.com/lowrider.

YOU HAVE A GOOD HEAD ON YOUR SHOULDERS.

KEEP IT THAT WAY
.

APRIL IS CHECK YOUR HELMET MONTH

UNITED BY INDEPENDENTS

The right helmet is the most important gear you own providing protection and reducing fatigue.
The average lifecycle of a helmet is 3-5 years. When’s the last time you had yours checked?

If a ride around the big
lake isn’t on your bucket
list, it should be.

Story & Photos By
DUSTIN A. WOODS
26

hog® magazine canada

W

henever and wherever riding enthusiasts congregate
and discuss the best places to ride, the old standards
like the Pacific Coast Highway, Cabot Trail, and Deals
Gap often come up. Lately I started to hear more and more
about another one right here in my own backyard that had me
intrigued – the Lake Superior Circle Tour.
The subject of perhaps the most famous Canadian ballad of
all time, Gordon Lightfoot’s song about an ill-fated ship named
the Edmund Fitzgerald and its 29 crew members, warns of the
peril such a treacherous body of water can hold. Measuring
82,103 square kilometres, it is the largest fresh water lake in
the world and reaches 1,333 feet at its deepest point. While
she can be vengeful when angry and tormented, she is also a
source of unparalleled beauty.
Spanning thousands of kilometres through three states and
one heck of a big province, I was most certainly interested.
But it would take some planning and most of all, time. After
deciding to take a much needed vacation and to ride a 2013
Electra Glide® motorcycle rather than fly to the recent 110th
Anniversay celebrations of Harley-Davidson Motor Company in
Milwaukee, I used the opportunity to tack on another week and
take the long way home.

hog® magazine canada

27

F

ollowing the fury of partying for
five consecutive days and nights
with over 100,000 fellow bikers at
the Harley-Davidson homecoming, I was
relieved that the rest of my trip would be
done solo so that I could finally get some
rest and relaxation. I left Milwaukee on
Interstate 43 North, heading towards Green
Bay. I basically carried on dead straight
for hours before continuing up 41 to the
town of Houghton for dinner at Quincy’s
Restaurant and sweet slumber at the
Magnuson Franklin Square Inn. Thankfully
the Inn has covered bike parking, since
there was frost overnight. Houghton is a
quaint little college town with lots of coffee
shops and no shortage of night life options
for those with enough energy to stay up
past 10:00 pm after a long day of riding in
the rain.
The next morning, I headed up to Calumet,
an area that was once the booming
epicentre of the copper industry. However,
once the resources dried up, so too did

the economy, and its residents vanished. It
would have become just another ghost town,
but it has since been named a National
Historic Landmark District and now houses
gift shops, restaurants, and a small but
fascinating museum that chronicles the
steep boom and bust the area experienced.
Not only was I eager to visit Calumet,
partly for the stark backdrop for pictures
of the Harley-Davidson® motorcycle, but
also I couldn’t wait to visit the roads that
lie just beyond the dilapidated hamlet I’d
heard so much about. Free of stop signs,
side streets, and traffic, Highway 41 winds
its way up to Copper Harbor in a more
entertaining fashion than I’ve experienced
on some racetracks. Once at the Northern
tip of the Upper Peninsula, I traversed
Highway 26 West over to Eagle Harbor
where the roads become slightly rougher,
but no less entertaining, and with better
scenery. Massive waves crashing against
the rocky shores of the Upper Peninsula
hint at the fierce nature and overwhelmingly

I don’t like doing the same
thing over and over. I like some
edge to feel alive. So when
an invitation to ride the Baja
peninsula hit the desk of my
comfortable but stale office
– where the view consists
of four walls and my HarleyDavidson motorcycle, parked
– it got my attention.

28

hog® magazine canada

A SOURCE OF
UNPARALLELED
BEAUTY

dangerous power of
the vast expanse of fresh
water. Remote and virtually
uninhabited, the area is a source
of nearly unfathomable beauty. But is
also unforgiving and unpredictable. The
weather can turn quickly and often does,
as I experienced. The wind kicked up and
brought with it cooler temperatures and
thick black clouds that began to release
their precipitation with unbridled ferocity
within what seemed like minutes.
After battling rain, wind, and singledigit temperatures most of the afternoon,
the sun appeared and the mercury rose
dramatically as I approached Canal Park
Lodge in Duluth, Minnesota, where I would
be spending the evening. On this revitalized
and reinvigorated strip, any given night in
the summer months is like a classic car
show of exceptional quality. This particular
September night, I saw a handful of vintage
Corvettes, a Chevelle SS, a Gran Torino,
several Mustangs, a chopped and stripped

“Long after the trip is over I can
still recall the vivid scenery and
the magnificent landscapes in
my mind before I go to sleep,
all mated to the rumbling
soundtrack of a throaty V-Twin.”
rat rod, and plenty of
motorcycles of all kinds.
That evening I tipped a
couple pints at the Canal Park
Brewing Company with Dennis Kachelmyer,
president of the Harley-Davidson® Sport
Center, who personally came to welcome
me to the area. “Welcome to the big lake,”
said Kachelmyer when I explained the
fast and furious weather fluctuation I’d
experienced. “Things can change quickly,
so you’ve got to be prepared for it.”
The next morning, Kachelmyer, the
second generation owner of the Store,
which is now in its 62nd year of business,
showed me around his world-class facility.

The purpose-built dealership serves as a
monument to the rich legacy of motorcycling
in his family, along with the colourful cast
of characters they have met along the way.
This cast includes regular visitor Larry
Bartlett, who I was fortunate enough to
meet in person. Recovering from bladder
cancer for the second time and in his
70s – he generally logs around 150,000
kilometres a year – Larry was out riding the
day after surgery. “I was at the 100th and

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29

“After battling rain, wind, and
single-digit temperatures
most of the afternoon, the
sun appeared and the mercury
rose dramatically as
I approached Canal Park
Lodge in Duluth.”

105th Harley-Davidson® celebrations and
was so upset I couldn’t make the 110th, but
it conflicted with my surgery and I couldn’t
reschedule,” said the near octogenarian as
he gingerly swung a leg over his Heritage
Softail™ Classic motorcycle, which was
impeccably maintained but had clearly been
put through its paces.
I suggested that perhaps I’d see him
at the 115th celebration, to which he
responded with a sly grin, “You sure will!”
Kachelmyer and his lovely wife Suzanne
took time out of their busy schedules to
show me some of their favourite roads
in the area, of which there are many.
Touring up to the top of the mountain on
sweeping curves, the roads provide views
of spectacular vistas, particularly from the
Enger Observation Tower, which has stood
valiantly atop the hill overlooking Duluth
since 1939.
Parting ways, I continued along the
North Shore on Highway 61, stopping at
the Split Rock Lighthouse, which began
construction shortly after a particularly
treacherous storm was responsible for the

Remote and virtually
uninhabited, the area
is a source of nearly
unfathomable beauty.
But is also unforgiving
and unpredictable.

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loss of 29 ships. When it opened in 1910,
it was the most remote lighthouse on the
Great Lakes and wasn’t accessible by road
so materials had to be raised up the 130 foot
cliff. I stopped a little further up the road for
lunch at the Lutsen Resort, as it happens to
reside roughly halfway between Duluth and
Thunder Bay in addition to coming highly
recommended. For this reason H.O.G.®
Chapters from the aforementioned cities
have congregated there for a gathering they
coined, “Meet in the Middle,” while also
being drawn by the beautiful scenery and
delicious food.
Crossing over the border into Canada, I
was met with wide open roads, which were
more entertaining and less inhabited, so I
had to be particularly vigilant of monitoring
my speed as I returned to civilization,
making my way to Bight Restaurant for
dinner. Located within the Winter Garden
Pavilion on Prince Arthur’s Landing, the
restaurant offers incredible food on the
waterfront which has been the prime focus
of a multi-million dollar rejuvenation project
to reconnect the city with the working
harbour. I circled the block several times
before managing to find the McVicar Manor
Bed & Breakfast where I would be spending
the night. This place is truly a hidden
diamond in the rough. Residing on a full
acre of beautiful property that takes up an
entire city block in downtown Thunder Bay,
most locals don’t even know the centuryold mansion exists and I’m glad they don’t.
Proprietors Tom and Dorothy are friendly,
accommodating, and incredibly hospitable,
the lodging is a solid five stars, and the food
was as good, if not better, than you would
experience in most restaurants.
I always make a point of stopping by
the Terry Fox memorial that overlooks the
city of Thunder Bay. Terry ran for 143 days
and 5,373 kilometres in his Marathon of
Hope, on one leg, but was forced to stop
near Thunder Bay. It never fails to put life
into perspective. That day had me riding
the Trans-Canada Highway to Wawa where
I once again experienced a full traffic-free
day, street lights, and thankfully, wildlife.
Every rider knows the hassle of having to
unpack your bike in the evening after a

long day on the road, or pack up in the
morning when your hotel room is too far
away. The Wawa Motor Inn hosts bikers
in the summer and snowmobilers in the
winter, so they are familiar with this plight.
Their main rooms have dual access into
the hotel and the parking lot and their
cabins, overlooking the golf course, all
allow you to park your pride-and-joy right
outside your door. They even provide extra
towels intended specifically for cleaning
your machine, presumably because they’re
tired of patrons ruining their good ones
but it is a valuable service nonetheless.
Young’s General Store is directly across
the street, and combines everything from
grocery store to gas station, bait, and gift
shop. It also happens to feature the best
summer sausage I’ve ever had in my life;
my mouth is watering even just thinking
about it now. And yes, I saw the goose.
On most road trips, the rest stops you
encounter along the way merely offer picnic
tables or bathroom facilities, but on the
stretch of road between Thunder Bay and
Sault Ste. Marie you don’t want to miss
stopping at a single one as they each offer
a unique and inspiring view. Witnessing the
majestic splendor of the Aguasabon Falls

requires a short walk but is well worth it.
Wrapping up the Big Lake portion of my
ride, I crossed back into Sault Ste. Marie,
which makes for a great home-base from
which to take numerous day trips and
explore some incredible roads that rival the
best you’ll find anywhere. Coming from a
long line of pilots, I always make a point of
visiting the Canadian Bushplane Heritage
Centre, which has some impressive
hardware and interactive displays. I
spent the last night of my epic journey at
the Carolyn Beach Motor Inn located in
Thessalon, Ontario.
Two weeks on two wheels is for me what
most people experience from a weekend
at the spa – a feeling of balance and pure
relaxation. Long after the trip is over I
can still recall the vivid scenery and the
magnificent landscapes in my mind before
I go to sleep, all mated to the rumbling
soundtrack of a throaty V-Twin. Every
ride is different, every experience unique.
Wherever your own personal journey may
take you, it is up to you to make the most of
it. Isn’t it time you started scratching items
off your bucket list?
For more information visit
www.ridelakesuperior.com.

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31

L

I
D

F
E
B

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E
A T

H

A change of scenery leads to a
radically altered life.

A

J

By
SIMON BOIS

A

Photography by
DON K ATES/SHOOTERS IMAGES
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33

I
D O N ’ T
L I K E
C O N V E N
I don’t like doing the same thing over and
over. I like some edge to feel alive. So when
an invitation to ride the Baja peninsula hit
the desk of my comfortable but stale office
– where the view consists of four walls and
my Harley-Davidson® motorcycle, parked –
it got my attention.

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T I O N A L
T

his south-of-the-border region is
typically depicted as the home of
drug-running cartels and Americans
in search of adventure. But I was inspired
by the prospect of uncharted territory and
beauty beyond my imagination. I needed
something radical and different from my
native Canadian landscape, a bucket list
ride. I knew Baja, Mexico, could offer that.
Despite the questions, objections, and
raised eyebrows of wife, family, and friends,
I was in.
So we set out. The plan was to start
in Tecate, pass through Ensenada (La
Bufadora), San Quintín, El Rosario,
Cataviña, Guerrero Negro, San Ignacio,
Santa Rosalía, and Mulegé, wind up in
Loreto, and then ride back – a total of
2,500 kilometres.

The roads were surprisingly good and
well maintained. Baja itself comprised
ruthless desert, rugged red earth, and
rocky landscapes. Scorching, sandy winds
stung our faces as we rode hard and fast.
For protection – and relief from the sun –
I wore a facial bandana, long sleeves, and
long pants.
Lush turquoise lagoons glimmered
off the Pacific Coast as we descended
barrier-less roads nesting on ravine edges
thousands of feet above the massive,
roaring Sea of Cortés. Roadside memorials
every 80 kilometres or so hinted at the
fragility of life. Temperatures ranged
from 46 degrees Celsius during the day
to around 15 at night. Stations in remote
areas filled our bikes with “gasolina”
hand-siphoned from barrels. Military

personnel armed with machine guns and
grenades searched us at checkpoints,
on the lookout for drug trafficking.
Because we were riding Harley-Davidson®
motorcycles, they often treated us like
rock stars. Among the populace, the sight
of our rides prompted barely concealed
excitement and reverent respect. Mexican
women clearly preferred my dark Fat Boy®
model. It was the only bike in the flock
subjected to multiple picture requests.
Camaraderie and ideal chemistry defined
our group; respect, integrity, and honesty
our attitude. Ten of us riding as one.
The ride itself was intense, the weather
extremes and required skills demanding.
My Fat Boy® bike was not only a pretty boy
in the eyes of the chicas, it pulled its weight
and exceeded all my expectations.
Mexican architecture was a colourful
feast for our eyes. Bony dogs, horses, and

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cows were a common sight in the fields.
Dusty children rode horses to school or
walked barefoot for miles. Many people
looked happier than those of us living a
more-pampered life north of the border.
Deep in thought, I scribbled in my journal:
Does material comfort equal genuine
richness? Does being rich make for a
healthier soul? Where was mine headed?
To a very dark road, it turned out.
I’d readied myself physically and mentally
for the dangers I knew Mexico would
present. But nothing could prepare me for
what actually happened. My best buddy,
David, from Nova Scotia, died, leaving
behind a beautiful daughter, Kayla, and
his cherished son, Josh, both still in Nova
Scotia. One minute he was in my mirror; the
next, he was nowhere to be seen.
I was the first to reach Dave’s lifeless
body. Mile marker 124, 80 kilometres south

I’d readied myself physically and mentally for
the dangers I knew Mexico would present.
But nothing could prepare me for what
actually happened.

of El Rosario, Mexico, 1:00
pm local time. I was filled
with adrenaline, screaming
his name as if I could bring
him back to life. We sat in
the desert sun beside him
for an hour before the first
car came. No cell signal,
no radio signal, no way to
call for help. We just sat
there, some of us crying, and
others completely in shock,
numbed eyes staring at the
horizon. Those moments are
engraved in my mind forever.
The ride back to the hotel
was sobering. I cried out to
God. I declared I would not
give up on hope or life.
I thanked Him for my
family. I begged Him to
bring me back to them
safely. Back at the hotel
the surviving riders gathered, physically
and emotionally exhausted. Hugs were
shared. Smiles. Tears. A solemn silence
was in the room. Someone grabbed drinks
and distributed them. We toasted “Naked
Dave” and shared stories about him.
The nickname came from a photo Don
once took that made a shirtless Dave look

Previous Page: The Boulders. Lighting candles
in the San Javier Mission. Our last night.
Above: My first day of riding, soaking it all in.

as if he were riding with no clothes on. But
I always felt that “naked” better described
the way Dave bared his heart and made
himself vulnerable to others.
The cause of his accident was more
insidious than any visible danger. It was
dehydration and heat stroke, the autopsy
revealed. Dave simply passed out while
riding. We had a very quiet dinner that
night. The next day we were back on the
road, focused on finishing the ride.
I came back from Mexico a different
soul, with a new outlook on life. Here’s

how I put it in my journal: “Baja is good
for the soul of a rider. If you think you
know it all, if you think you can do anything
without anyone, or if you have an ego
the size of an elephant, Baja will help
cure that.”
As I sit back in my comfortable office
chair on this side of the trip I find myself
missing my companions more than words
can express. We’re still in touch regularly.
We would all like to ride again, together.
Simon invites readers to visit him on
Facebook at facebook.com/floridanighttrain.

My left mirror catches the afternoon sun in a blinding yellow
flash as I effortlessly lean into the curve and smoothly roll onto
the throttle. I squint and blink to clear away the phantom green
and yellow reflections that dance on the backs of my eyes.
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39

I’m winding my way east along
the Julian Highway, through the
Anza-Borrego Desert on the all-new
Harley-Davidson® SuperLow® 1200T
motorcycle, an easy-riding cruiser
complete with all the essential
touring comforts, perfect for a long
weekend trip like this one.

M

Different Strokes:
Strange scenes
abound on the bizarre
landscape of Slab City.
It’s a perfect place to
get lost in reflections
about what draws us to
seek adventures on two
wheels.

40

y mind flashes back to almost a year ago, when I first visited
Niland, California – a sleepy, dusty town off the southeastern
corner of the Salton Sea, tucked in the Colorado Desert valley
at the base of the Chocolate Mountains. Niland is the kind of town you’d
never know existed unless you had a reason for knowing. It’s not what
you’d think of as a “destination”. I remember wondering last year as I
drove down Main Street: what draws the 1,000 or so residents to such a
seemingly desolate place?
But something special does draw people to Niland. It’s the same thing
that drew my brother and his fiancée there while on a motorcycle road
trip two summers ago, a trip that led to my entire family making the
journey back a year later for their wedding. And now, here I was, making
the journey again by myself.
The 14-inch windshield on the SuperLow® 1200T motorcycle kept me
comfortable all day on the ride in from Los Angeles and minimized wind
fatigue – the winds through the desert can get brutal. With the sun going
down, the desert air gets chilly. There’s ample room in the two hard vinyl
locking saddlebags on the bike for my four days of clothes, in addition to
a pair of Deluxe Leather Chaps and a Relay RCS Soft Shell hoodie slipped
underneath my leather riding jacket. In my backpack I keep my laptop,
cameras, and other gadgets.
Four miles outside of Niland, down a pock-marked service road past
the municipal dump, and across a set of railroad tracks, is where you’ll
find the last “free” land in America: Salvation Mountain and Slab City.
Slab City is home to about 150 permanent residents known as
“Slabbers” and thousands of snowbirds, squatters, eccentrics, artists, and
drifters who are drawn to the area for its purely “off-the-grid” existence.

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There are no taxes and no rents to pay. The
Slabs are uncontrolled, and for the most part,
lawless. As such, the makeshift community is
not without its share of problems, including
hard drug abuse and violent crime. There’s no
running water; no electricity; no trash pickup;
no sewers, showers, or toilets. The whole place
appears like a set from a Mad Max movie. How
can a place like this exist in modern America?
The Slabs began in 1942 as Camp Dunlap, a
WWII military base used to prepare the United
States Marine Corps for combat. When military

operations were downsized in 1949, the camp
was reduced to a skeleton crew until it was
dismantled in 1956. Nothing remained at the
camp except the concrete slabs on which the
buildings once sat.
In the early 1960s, the Department of
Defense (DOD) conveyed Camp Dunlap to the
State of California through a quitclaim deed
that contained no restrictions or provisions for
its use and no recapture clause. Essentially,
the DOD simply gave the land away. The site sat
vacant for a few years until some workers hired

to pick creosote leaves near Niland decided to
use the empty slabs as a temporary base camp.
They moved in with their trailers, tents, and RVs,
and Slab City was born. Meanwhile, up the road
in Mecca, California, a group of campers was
ordered to leave their quasi-permanent camps
at Painted Canyon. Some moved to a nearby
area known as Bombay Beach along the eastern
edge of the Salton Sea and others joined the
existing squatters in the Slabs.
Slab City is an ever-changing landscape, one
that continues to evolve with those who come

and go, and those who have chosen to stay.
One of the more popular attractions within the
Slabs is East Jesus, a refuge of artists, writers,
and musicians dedicated to providing a working
model of a fully improvised community. East
Jesus is a real-life live-in art installation whose
inhabitants embrace radical artistic expression
and extreme self-reliance. The community is
completely self-contained, runs entirely on
solar power, and its inhabitants recycle every bit
of consumable trash to create the fantastically
strange art on display within its borders. One

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41

Slab City is home to about 150 permanent residents
known as “Slabbers” and thousands of snowbirds,
squatters, eccentrics, artists, and drifters who are drawn
to the area for its purely “off-the-grid” existence. There are
no taxes and no rents to pay. The Slabs are uncontrolled,
and for the most part, lawless.

of my favourite pieces of art is a wall made
entirely of brightly coloured glass bottles
held together with mortar. The reflection of
light through the bottles illuminates it like a
stunning stained-glass window.
Another well-known area within Slab City
is the Range – an open-air music venue
complete with lighting, amplifiers, and
speakers run off generators and solar-charged
batteries by long-time resident Builder Bill.
Mismatched tables and grimy couches provide
seating for residents and visitors who gather
every Saturday night at dusk for a weekly
talent show featuring local Slab musicians,
poets, and performers.
The entrance to Slab City is heralded by the
impressive and whimsical sight of Salvation
Mountain, a three-story-high art installation
created by Leonard Knight in the mid-1980s as
a tribute to God after he experienced a deeply
profound religious conversion. The mountain
was built from layer upon layer of rubbish,
straw, and sand held together and packed
smooth by adobe clay, every spare inch covered
with whimsical murals, Biblical verses, and
prayers. A perpetual work-in-progress, it’s
estimated that more than 200,000 gallons of
donated paint have gone into the creation of the
mountain over the past 27 years. In 2000, the
Folk Art Society of America declared Salvation
Mountain a national treasure, and a folk art
site worthy of preservation and protection.
The attraction is free and open to the public
year-round. A dedicated team of volunteers
and board members continues to manage the

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maintenance and future of the mountain to keep
Knight’s dream alive since he was moved into a
long-term care facility in 2011 at the age of 80.
The sun is setting as I pull the Candy
Orange SuperLow® motorcycle off the main
drag in Niland and head northeast on Beale
Street toward Slab City. I’m thinking about
something the mystic poet Rumi once said:
“Let yourself be silently drawn by the strange
pull of what you really love. You will not be
lead astray.” My heart beats faster the closer I
get to Salvation Mountain.
My mind flashes back to youthful summer
mornings waking to the staccato potato-potato
chop of my dad’s 1975 Super Glide® motorcycle
heading down the driveway on his way to work
in the sleepy quiet of the early dawn. I would
lay in bed and dream that someday that would
be me, heading off in the dewy morning on my
own Harley® motorcycle, venturing toward some
grand adventure.
I pass an electric substation and cross the
railroad tracks, thinking about Rumi and all
the things that led me to this moment – how
wonderfully strange our journeys through life
can be, how everything happens for a reason,
and how such seemingly random occurrences
can end up connecting us so profoundly to one
another.
What draws thousands of people to exist so
minimally in Slab City each year? And what
strange pull drew Knight to build his strangely
fascinating mountain in the middle of the desert
all those years ago? What led my brother and
his future bride to take that road trip – to point
to a map and say “there” is where we’ll go; to
feel so accidentally inspired as they stood at
Salvation Mountain at sunset and decide that’s
where they would be married? What led me
to take this opportunity to return? How does
the chain of events in life unfold – one domino
falling into the next?
Salvation Mountain comes into view as
I round the bend, the colours of its vibrant
painted surface magnified by the setting
California sun.
What if the greatest adventure in life is the
willingness to let yourself be pulled? Without
all the questions, without having to ask or
understand why. To be willing to take the
journey, to let yourself be silently drawn.

T

FOR
TOURING

For 2014, the Harley-Davidson®
SuperLow® 1200T model builds on
the sales success of the SuperLow®
883 model, a bike that has been a
huge hit among riders seeking an
easy-handling, confidence-inspiring
machine. Combining the SuperLow® chassis with the added
performance of the Evolution™ 1,200 cc engine and essential touring
amenities, the easy-riding SuperLow® 1200T motorcycle will be
attractive to riders ready to embark on their first touring experience.
Equipped with a quick-detachable 14-inch windshield, locking
vinyl-covered saddlebags, adjustable rear shocks, a two-up seat, and
comfortable mini footboards at the rider and passenger positions,
the SuperLow® 1200T motorcycle can handle the load and pace of
moderate-distance touring. The saddlebag mounting hardware
incorporates quick-detach docking points, so it’s easy to add a rack
or a sissy bar and backrest.
Designed to comfortably fit riders from 5’1” to 5’7” in height, the
SuperLow® 1200T bike makes it possible for almost any rider to
put flat feet on the ground, providing an easy reach to the ground,
handlebar, and foot controls. The combination of wheel size,
radial tires, and front-end geometry contribute to its outstanding
manoeuvrability, and with a projected weight of about 600 pounds,
the SuperLow® 1200T motorcycle weighs nearly 120 pounds less
than a Switchback™ model. The unladen seat height is 28.6 inches,
and the SuperLow® 1200T motorcycle will come with a Reduced
Reach® two-up seat as standard equipment. This seat moves the
rider closer to the handlebar and into a confident riding posture, to
not only reach but also turn the handlebar comfortably. Relocating
the rider foot supports forward by three inches makes it easier for
the rider’s feet to drop straight down to the ground, especially with a
passenger on board.
Although it’s smaller and lighter than a Big Twin, the SuperLow®
1200T motorcycle still projects the full prestige of the HarleyDavidson® Brand. For the rider taking pride in a motorcycle with an
exclusive two-tone paint scheme, deluxe aluminum wheels, and
plenty of chrome, the SuperLow® 1200T motorcycle flashes a lot of
Harley-Davidson® class for $14,499.

It’s often one of the first
things that new riders learn
about “street strategies”,
either in a classroom
situation or from a friend:
ride in the left third of the
lane. As a general rule, it’s
not a bad one to follow. But
the truth is, it’s not really
a rule at all. Proper lane
positioning can depend on
any number of factors, and
it’s up to the rider to decide
which one is best for the
situation at hand.

Picture each lane of traffic divided into three “lane positions”, as illustrated on this page, 1, 2, and 3,
from left to right. Each has specific advantages and disadvantages in different situations.
Let’s start with Position 1. But first we should note that riding in this position does not necessarily
mean riding in the middle of the left third of the lane. More often it means riding just to the left of the
imaginary line between Position 1 and Position 2. A common way to define it is riding in the left tire
track of the vehicle in front of you. It’s true, Position 1 has a lot going for it. For one thing, it’s often the
best place on the road to both see and be seen:
> Drivers in front of you can see you in both their rearview and sideview mirrors.
> On a two-lane road or when you’re riding in the left lane of a multi-lane highway with no median
oncoming drivers can see you sooner; you’re less “hidden” by the car ahead.
Another advantage of Position 1 is that the vehicle ahead of you can give you clues about what’s
ahead. Imagine there’s a board, or some road kill, or other small obstacle in the road. If it’s in the
middle of the lane (Position 2), the driver ahead of you probably won’t react at all, they’ll just “straddle”
it as they drive over it. If you’re following in the center of the lane, you won’t know it’s there until it’s
right in front of you. This gives you very little time to react (two seconds if you’re using the two-second
rule for following distance). If you’re in Position 1, on the other hand, you’ll miss the obstacle without
having to swerve or change position.
If the obstacle is in the left third of the lane, the driver would likely change position to avoid running
over it, giving you some advance warning that you, too, will have to change position.
Finally, riding in Position 1 often helps you visually assert yourself and claim the space you’re riding
in. Imagine a four-lane road with traffic, and you’re riding in the right lane. Staying in Position 1 makes
it less likely that a driver might try to squeeze in and crowd you out.

POSITION 2

GROUP THINKING

It’s probably fair to say that this position is something of a last resort.
Some sources will say you should never ride in the middle of the
lane, but I won’t go quite that far. The main reason to avoid it is that’s
where oil leaking from vehicles tends to get deposited. It’s also
where dirt and debris tend to accumulate, as vehicle tires tend to
keep other parts of the lane a little cleaner.
And think of the example above, concerning an obstacle in the
road, maybe an old shoe or something like that. This type of debris
tends to settle where it’s less likely to get hit by a wheel. This means
either between the lanes or in the middle of a lane. You’re also, often,
less visible in Position 2. Think of that big truck in front of you or
even that van with no rear windows, or the family minivan with the
rear window blocked by luggage. Those drivers can’t see you in their
rearview mirrors (if they even have them), and in the middle of the
lane, you’re less likely to be in range of their sideview mirrors.
One time you might consider riding in the center is if there is
heavy traffic and you’re having trouble keeping an adequate “cushion”
around you. Riding in the center can give you a little more elbow
room on both sides. But, you have to weigh that against the other
factors just described and make a smart, informed decision.
Remember, in all situations, to “S.E.E.” Search, Evaluate, and
Execute. Scan your surroundings continuously to be as visually
aware of everything going on around you as possible. Think about
what you’re seeing and formulate a sound strategy. Then execute
that plan with confidence.

Position 3 is also a popular spot in group riding. In the classic
staggered formation, the lead rider rides in Position 1, while the
next rider behind rides in Position 3. The rider after that is in Position 1, and so on, with each rider maintaining a two-second cushion behind the rider directly ahead (one second behind the rider
ahead in the opposite lane position).
But riding in a group doesn’t mean you’ve forfeited your right
to make good decisions for yourself – you just have to do so while
according the proper respect for your other riders.
For instance, imagine the high-traffic, two-lane road we just
discussed, but now in a group riding situation. In this situation,
shifting from Position 1 to Position 3 would require you to “break
formation”. Is that okay? Well, it depends, it’s a good question to
ask at the rider meeting before a group ride.
One option is to not change position completely. When you see
a big truck coming, maybe just slide over to your right a little bit,
into Position 2, then slide back over after it passes. You can do
this without disrupting the formation. If traffic is steady, you may
want to stay in Position 3. If you do this, you first have to increase
your following distance behind the rider ahead, who presumably is
already in Position 3.
You also have to let the rider behind you know that you plan
to stay there. You can do this by holding up one finger in the air,
indicating a single-file formation. Or, tap your brake light to give
the rider an indication that you’re hanging back. Again, different
groups’ expectations will likely vary, making this an excellent topic
to bring up in a pre-ride meeting.

POSITION 3
This lane position is a good choice in a number of different situations.
One is when you are riding on a two-lane highway and there’s a lot of
oncoming traffic in the other lane. When riding in Position 1, many
riders just don’t like the sensation of traffic whizzing by them at such
a close distance and that’s completely legitimate! In addition to being
uncomfortable psychologically, a rider in this situation is exposed to
a number of potential hazards.
Just for starters, the wind blast from trucks and other large
vehicles can knock you around, potentially putting you in harm’s
way. You’re more exposed to debris – or pieces of a blown truck
tire – that may get kicked up by the other vehicle. In wet weather,
water sprayed up by tires can impair your visibility. And, perhaps
most significantly, you’re more at risk for an actual collision if you
or the oncoming vehicle should accidently veer into the other lane.
In this situation, Position 3 can be your refuge. If the oncoming traffic
is sparse, stay in Position 1 if you prefer, and shift to Position 3 as
needed. If traffic is continuous, don’t hesitate to take up permanent
residence in the right-hand part of the lane. But in doing so, don’t
forget about the visibility considerations we’ve already discussed. If
shifting to Position 3 makes you less visible to the vehicle ahead of
you, increase your following distance or make other adjustments to
make sure you can be seen.
Remember: Riding safely often involves trade-offs. It’s your responsibility to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of all your
options, and make smart decisions accordingly.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
Trucks: Big trucks take up a lot space on the road and intimidate
a lot of riders with good reason. They have a lot of blind spots,
can’t manoeuvre quickly, and create a lot of wind. If you can’t
avoid riding near them, adjust your lane position to stay visible,
stay out of their wake, and give yourself an escape route.
Time of Day: When glare is a factor, such as riding toward a setting sun, changing your lane position to get out of the direct sunlight may help you see better. At night, when animals in the road
are a concern, riding in Position 2 can give you a better space
cushion on either side within your own lane.
Cornering: Don’t get “locked in” to your lane position when cornering. Use the whole lane to choose a path through the curve
that lets you see what’s ahead and maintain a steady speed. (For
further discussion, see “Pitstop,” HOG® Magazine Canada, Spring
2013 issue.)
In the end, where to ride within your lane is not about rules;
it’s about making smart choices for each circumstance. Don’t
get locked into a “one position fits all” approach. Stay alert and
stay active. Ride where you can see (and “S.E.E.”), where you
can be seen, where you’re comfortable and confident, with a
healthy space cushion around you and an escape route in mind.
And position yourself for a safe and enjoyable ride.

There’s nothing better than adding your own special touch to your Harley-Davidson® motorcycle.

O

wning a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle
is all about freedom of expression,
and the very nature of customizing is
in our DNA. The good news is that there are
over 10,000 Harley-Davidson® Genuine
Motor Parts & Accessories to help you do it.
When it comes to customization, there
are no limits, and the final destination
is whatever you want it to be. Likewise,
there are no set rules and no right or
wrong way to customize. The basis for
inspiration can come from anywhere; the
Harley-Davidson® Inspiration Gallery (go
to http://accessories.harley-davidson.ca/
inspiration-gallery/ to view it) or a custom
machine you saw on the street, at a show,

48

hog® magazine canada

at a Harley® Retailer, at the movies, or
in a magazine. It may even come from
your own free-form creativity. You may
have a clear vision in mind to complete
your dream look all at once, or you may
choose to add accessories over time and
gradually develop a concept. It’s a good
idea to get used to how modifications will
affect your bike. Your authorized Canadian
Harley-Davidson® Retailer can advise you
on this.
The guide to customization is designed
to outline the various elements that you
should consider when customizing your
motorcycle, including fit, function, style,
performance, and garage.

changing the saddle are all
ways in which your Harley®
Retailer can help you customize
your fit. For a more personalized
look, the Harley-Davidson®
Custom Seat Program offers
the perfect means to thread
the look of a bike together,
with options to select colour,
stitching patterns, and the
leather inlay to best support
an individual’s every need.
They are available in Brawler®
solo seat and Sidekick® twoup designs and are styled
to accent the lines of some
Sportster®, Dyna®, Softail®, and
Touring models while providing
maximum rider support.
FUNCTION

FIT
Getting the right “fit” is all
about achieving the best onroad experience and ensuring
comfort. Everybody is different.
Factors such as body shape,
riding style, and how far we
ride all call for different
accessories.
Ensuring that your
handlebars are the right style
and position for you, altering
the position and height of your
foot controls, or altering the
ride height of your machine by
adjusting the suspension or

Function refers to how a
motorcycle meets the needs of
its rider out on the road. From
urban cruising to long-distance
touring, there’s an extensive
range of Harley-Davidson®
Genuine Motor Accessories
that can improve a bike’s
functionality for its owner.
Additional lighting can be added
to improve on road vision and
visibility. Factors such as wind
protection and on bike storage
solutions, as well as sissy bars
and back rests can ensure
the comfort of you and your
passenger. Plus the awesome
Boom!™ Audio system offers
superior quality on-bike
entertainment in the shape of a
surround sound audio system.
Now you can take the music
with you wherever you ride.
STYLE
The Harley-Davidson®
motorcycle heritage and design
is synonymous with style.

You can create a unique look
to express your individuality,
as well as your preferred fit
and function. Changing your
wheels can dramatically
revamp your look with over
40 styles to choose from – or
maybe you prefer a new paint
job? From the big flake paint
and retro cool of the Hard
Candy Custom™ range or the
cutting-edge, contemporary look
of the Burst Collection, HarleyDavidson Motor Company offers
something for everyone. If global
exclusivity is your thing, then
there’s the Color Shop Custom
Paint Limited Series. From
flames and skulls to classic
two-tone colours, the Limited
Series offers 150 individually
numbered exclusive sets
that are available worldwide
throughout each model year.

Garage range extends from
cleaning and polishing kits
to lubricants and oil, offering
you the chance to ensure
your pride and joy is looked
after in the best possible way
– with products specifically
designed for Harley-Davidson®
motorcycles.
There are no rules to
customization, and no time
limits either, but the most
important thing to remember is
that this is your bike and your
dream, so the ultimate choice is
yours. Go express yourself!

LOOKING FOR
INSPIRATION?
®

PERFORMANCE
For many of us, the dream of
perfection in personalization is
less cosmetic and more under
the skin. With the Screamin’
Eagle® Performance Parts
collection, you can tweak the
performance and sound of
your ride to suit your taste.
Horsepower, torque, and even
economy can be improved
upon with the extensive range
of add-ons that include a
multitude of exhaust systems,
air filter kits, and engine
upgrades.
GARAGE
Protecting motorcycles
from the elements and the
environment is vital to the
upkeep of your customization.
The Harley-Davidson® Genuine
Motor Parts & Accessories

Untitled-1 1

28/11/2013 4:42:46 PM

The basic concept of customizing
your ride is a simple one, and
it’s an exciting one too! However,
knowing where to start, what
look to go for, and how to achieve
that look is a whole different ball
game. So, to help inspire your
creative juices, we’ve put
together the 2014 HarleyDavidson® Genuine Motor Parts
& Accessories catalogue. Ask
your local authorized Canadian
Harley-Davidson® for your free
copy, and while you’re at it, why not
pick their brains to get a few ideas
– they are the experts after all!

hog® magazine canada

49

CUSTOM CULTURE
Express your own individual style and
ride your own road – just as it should be.

Where there’s a road, there’s a way. Getting to the Rally is half the fun. 2014’s lineup of U.S. State H.O.G.®
rallies sweeps the country, giving you the chance to explore America the way it was meant to – from the
seat of a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. This is the season you hear what a rumble sounds like as it echoes
off mountains in Colorado, dig into the curves as you ride down the bayou toward Louisiana, and take on
the back roads of Tennessee. For more information, visit hog.com/rallies.
THE IRON ADVENTURE RUN
New Hampshire, Vermont,
Massachusetts, Rhode Island,
Connecticut, July 24-26
WASHINGTON/IDAHO/OREGON
Pacific Northwest Rally
Spokane Valley, Washington,
July 24-27
PENNSYLVANIA
Bethlehem, July 31-August 2
MICHIGAN
Birch Run, August 14-16
NEBRASKA
Omaha, August 28-30
UTAH
Moab, August 28-30
NORTH CAROLINA
Murphy to Manteo,
September 3-6
NEW MEXICO
Clovis , September 4-6
LOUISIANA
Lafayette, April 3-5

H.O.G.® yearly packages are sent upon renewal. If you have a July
2014 expiry date for instance, you can renew in January 2014 to
receive your package at the beginning of the season. Your membership
will still expire in July 20XX (depending on your renewal term), but you
will receive your materials sooner — so you don’t lose any months of
membership by renewing early!
H.O.G.® and H.O.G.® Roadside Assistance are two separate
companies, working closely together but with separate enrolment /
renewal systems. To upgrade your package, please call Customer
Service at toll-free 1-866-209-8270. To call for service, please dial
1-888-443-5896.You must call this number to receive the necessary
assistance as per your H.O.G.® membership benefits. Calling another
towing service and submitting receipts after the fact is not the
proper procedure and will not be reimbursed.
Motorcycles must be enrolled in the H.O.G.® Mileage Program first
before kilometres can be claimed; this applies to all bikes that you

want to claim mileage (including rental bikes). Please enrol at your
local Retailer, as they are required to sign the form to validate the
number of kilometres.
Members receive the year-specific H.O.G.® pins and patches when
renewing. In the first year of H.O.G.® Membership, the H.O.G.® (eagle)
pin and patch are sent out, not the year specific ones. These are
received for the first time on your first year of membership renewal.
Free H.O.G.® Membership from a new bike purchase is transferable
to an existing full member or associate member.
Renewal updates online will be visible within the members only
area approximately 10 days after their completion. Online profiles
for access to hog.com can be created for new memberships within 10
days of your enrollment being processed.
For delivery of H.O.G.® materials, please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery
as this can vary depending on the local postal service in different areas.

H.O.G. ® Canada Team

Gina McNeil
Manager,
Enthusiast Services

Duarte Pita
Communications &
Events Coordinator

Yvan Lejeune
Membership Services
Coordinator

Myles Anderson
Regional Director
Western

Brad Carvery
Regional Director
Prairies

Vern Wilson
Regional Director
Ontario

Michel-André Roy
Regional Director
Quebec

Dale Williams
Regional Director
Atlantic

hog
hog® magazine canada
®

53

Kingston, Ontario | July 24-26, 2014
Like all things truly Canadian (think hockey, cottaging, snowmobiles
and MOTORCYCLES!) the 18th Canadian National H.O.G.® Rally is
sure to remind you why you love being a member of H.O.G. ®
in Canada. It’s also our way of showing YOU just how much we
appreciate your membership.
So come join us by the lake in the heart of Ontario’s oldest city,
beautiful and historic Kingston, ON, for three activity-packed days
and experience H.O.G.® like you never have before. We’ll ride, we’ll
explore, we’ll play and we’ll celebrate. (Don’t worry, we’ll feed and
entertain you as well.)

FREE! They need to register, but they will not receive a rally package.

Attendees

PHOTOCOPIES
ACCEPTED
Must be an active
H.O.G.® member
(Life, Full or Associate)
to register.

Registrations received after June 19, 2014 are not guaranteed a rally package.

Name #1: _____________________________________

Name #2: _____________________________________

H.O.G. #: ____________________________________

H.O.G.® #: ____________________________________

Phone #: _____________________________________

Phone #: _____________________________________

E-mail: ______________________________________

E-mail: ______________________________________

T-Shirt Size (circle one) :

T-Shirt Size (circle one) :

Men: SM MD LG XL 2X 3X Women: SM MD LG XL 2X

Men: SM MD LG XL 2X 3X Women: SM MD LG XL 2X

®

Payment Type ¨ Visa

¨ MasterCard

¨ Cheque or Money Order

Credit Card #: ______________________________________________________

Total Amount: ___________________
Expiry Date: ____________________

Confirmations: Online registration will be instantly confirmed. Registrations received via mail or fax will be confirmed by email. Please be sure to include
a valid email address.
Cancellation Policy: You may cancel your registration and receive a full refund by notifying H.O.G.® Canada by April 30, 2014. No refunds will be issued
after this date. If you are unable to attend and have missed the cancellation window, please arrange for your package to be picked up in person on your
behalf on-site. Packages will not be mailed.

Additional accommodations can also be found by visiting
tourism.kingstoncanada.com, kingstonontario.com
or kingstoncanada.com.
*Shuttle bus service will not be available at all hotels listed.
† Rally packages are only available for on-site pick-up.

It's all about adding your own soundtrack to
your ride, right? It all starts with your HarleyDavidson® motorcycle, and with the latest
products from the Boom!™ Audio range of H-D®
Genuine Motor Accessories, you’re on your way.
For 2014, it’s about making things much more
convenient and giving you sound quality never
before heard. The all-new Boom!™ Box 6.5GT
Infotainment System is designed for plug-andplay installation and is the ideal upgrade for 2014
and on Touring models equipped with a standard
Boom!™ Box 4.3 system.
One look at the brilliant 6.5-inch display and
you know that this is something special. The
system features a low distortion, 25-watt/channel
amplifier that has been optimized for great sound
in an open-air-environment. The feature-packed
radio is Factory-equipped with AM/FM radio,
integrated iPod and USB audio device playback,
map-based GPS navigation, and Bluetooth®
pairing of mobile phones and wireless headsets.
The 6.5GT features can be accessed via the glovefriendly touchscreen, joystick hand controls, or
with hands-free voice recognition. And it doesn’t
stop there.
Calls can come through your speakers or your
helmet-mounted headset, you can select your
favourite song or mode by speaking, and with
voice recognition you can make a phone call that
way, too. Plus for those who don’t want to get
too lost, the in-built GPS is on-hand to help. For
music lovers, the options are many, whether you
wire or Bluetooth® your music from your phone or
MP3 player, iPhone, iPod, or SD card.
Whether you chose to upgrade to a Boom!™
Audio 6.5GT system or not, you can still upgrade
your sound with amplifiers and speaker expansion
from the Boom!™ Audio range.

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hog® magazine canada

Speaker upgrades are many and varied. For
all fairing-equipped Touring bikes, it starts with
upgrading the stock fairing speakers to Boom!™
Audio 6.5-inch cones for improved low and mid
frequencies, which include bridge-mounted,
dampened soft-dome 1-inch tweeters for
improved high frequencies. Composite frame
and high-performance magnets also increase
the speakers’ power-handling capabilities, and
the whole frame is covered with a stylish metal
speaker grill.
Saddlebag speaker kits convert your audio
system to a full four-speaker outfit. Boom!™ Audio
Saddlebag Speakers increase the available sound
pressure level (SPL) to produce higher listening
volume, lower distortion, and improved clarity
at highway speeds. The pair of 5-inch x 7-inch
waterproof, 2-ohm, full-range speakers feature
high strength woofer cones and suspended
1-inch tweeters that are directionally optimized,
so you hear them and not just those following
you. Speakers go through a range of tests to
ensure that they operate flawlessly under the
toughest conditions and that they fit seamlessly
into Customer-designed saddlebag lids under
a stylish and durable perforated metal speaker
grill. Saddlebag lids are sold separately and are
available primed or colour-matched.
Owners of pre-2014 Touring (as well as some
Softail® and Dyna® models) shouldn’t feel left out.
The Boom!™ Audio range has a full catalogue
of audio upgrades including speaker expansion
packs and amplifiers.
With Boom!™ Audio, Harley-Davidson Motor
Company has got your audio senses covered.
Speak to your authorized Canadian HarleyDavidson® Retailer today to discover how you can
get them completely surrounded!

1

2

HIGH OUTPUT
CHARGING
SYSTEM

3

1
BATWING FAIRING SPEAKERS
Weather and vibration resistant
full range two-way speakers
designed to maximise music
volume and clarity.

When you've got some big
sounds going on, you need the
High Output Charging System
designed for the higher load
conditions found on Touring
models.
This system makes sure
that the battery remains
charged and therefore able
to supply the requisite power
to your Harley-Davidson®
motorcycle’s core functions,
such as ignition, information
gauges, and lighting, as well
as any accessories you may
have hooked up to your ride.
If you’re into year-long
riding and have an assortment
of heated kit, including
seat and grips, then this is
perfect for you. And if you
run high-end audio systems
with multiple amps, the High
Output Charging System
delivers a 30 per cent increase
in output, ensuring that
all your sound system and
accessories – as well as your
Harley-Davidson® motorcycle –
operate at peak-performance.

A dedicated and passionate rider learns the value of planning and moderation on a western road trip.
By Darlene Hutton

I

’m stranded at the airport in Timmins, Ontario, as I write this,
after spending a week working in both the Attawapiskat First
Nation and Moose Factory communities in Northern Ontario.
I brought a recent HOG® Magazine Canada issue with me and
finally had the chance to read it while waiting when I noticed
your call for stories.
I am a 53-year-old mother of two beautiful daughters who decided
to get her motorcycle licence just over eight years ago for a few
reasons. First, I felt motion sickness as a passenger and didn’t think
being sick on the back of a bike would be such a great idea. Second,
with two younger kids at the time, I was concerned about the risk
of my daughters losing both parents in an accident. Third, I love
riding, seeing the road uninterrupted in front of me, and feeling the
air in a way you don’t feel as a passenger. Eight years later, a BMW
650 FS model, a BMW 1150 RS model, a Suzuki V-Strom model, a

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®

Harley‑Davidson® Heritage Softail™ Classic model, and a brandspanking-new H-D® Street Glide® model, I have finally found THE one.
I have ridden across Canada three times, south many times, and
have logged more than 100,000 kilometres in those eight years. We
love to ride far, plan big trips, and give ourselves little free time to
twiddle our thumbs and sightsee. That’s the way I thought I loved to
ride: seven to 12 hours a day for 15 days. As I get on a bit in age, I do
feel the weight of those long days earlier than I used to, but I must
admit that my new H-D® Street Glide® motorcycle made our last
10,000 km, 15-day trip a relative breeze.
We left Lindsay, Ontario, and rode three days north through
Ontario. We made it to Hope, British Columbia, three days after
that. It was early August and I had debated packing my heated
gear. Thank goodness I did bring it, as I used it more on this trip
than ever before. We ran into rain and frigid air from Thunder Bay,

Ontario, to Cranbrook, British
Columbia, but we finally found
some warm, then hot weather
as we left Washington State
and rode east to Montana. We
had to seek shelter in Butte,
Montana, because the wind
and clouds felt and looked just
too strange to comprehend. I
was in heaven trying to keep
my helmet from lifting off while
dodging the tumbleweed flying
by. Another great memory
was the extreme temperature
change and unbelievable views
riding the Beartooth Pass on
the Wyoming/Montana border.
I was in awe, aware of how the
original explorers must have felt
when they first saw this land
while riding on their horses.
Probably the most laughable
memory was our ride through
Yellowstone National Park. We
had our bikes serviced in Butte
and only had a 418-kilometre
trip planned to Cody, Wyoming.
We didn’t leave the Butte
dealership until 1:00 pm and
vowed we were going to get in
our full day’s itinerary. We didn’t
pull into the west entrance of
Yellowstone until around 4:00
pm. It was another cold and
dreary day and it had been
snowing earlier. We knew
we were pushing our luck by
staying for almost an hour to
watch Old Faithful blow. We
were in our full rain gear with
warm gloves waiting ever so
patiently as the clouds grew
more ominous with thunder and
lightning, hoping to watch the
geyser blow. It was worth the
wait, despite what happened
afterwards. No regrets, just
lessons learned.
It was 7:00 pm by the time
we left, and we had a two-hour
journey through the remainder
of the park to the town of Cody,
Wyoming. We were well aware

of the risks of evening riding,
but could not stop anywhere
sooner. The rain had finally
eased up. Most of the tourists
had gone, and the roads were
devoid of traffic. Rounding a
bend, we were assaulted by
the strong smell of wildlife and
radioed to each other to be on
the lookout. We slowed down,
sensing wildlife nearby, and just
as we rounded another bend,
there they were: one large bison
was casually crossing the road
while five more were looking
at us from the shoulder. They
were fewer than eight metres
away. They sized us up and I
was scared stiff. These docile
creatures were huge and I felt
completely helpless. That’s
when I wished we were with
all the tourists. We eventually
slowly rode past them and
continued on our journey. By

*

the time we left Yellowstone
and made our way down the
mountainside road, it was pitch
black. Having travelled that
road before, I knew that there
were huge curves, steep cliffs,
and breathtaking views – none
of which we saw on this trip. I
can now check riding down a
mountain at night off my “notto-do” bucket list.
Tired but exhilarated, we
arrived safely home 10,000 km
and 15 days later. Truth be
told, we both could have kept
going for another year. We
had amazing memories and
had learned some important
lessons.
Lesson No. 1: For a big trip,
don’t rush it. We thought that
doing up to 700 kilometres per
day was reasonable. WRONG.
This type of itinerary will make
for a very tiring trip if doing that

distance for 15 days. We will do
that trip again because we loved
every single moment; however,
we will do that distance in three
to four weeks with two-day
stops at the places we really
want to explore further.
Lesson No. 2: The first
time we arrived in Cody a few
years prior was at 6:30 pm,
only to discover that all the
hotels were sold out. For this
trip, we decided to book all
our accommodations prior to
leaving. This trip re-confirmed
that it is essential to have a road
plan and hotels booked for the
smaller towns that you really
want to stay in.
I love riding. I work hard to
ride. After four bikes, I have
finally found my match in my
Street Glide® motorcycle. The
following day, our minds started
planning our next big trip.

IT WAS WORTH THE WAIT, DESPITE
WHAT HAPPENED AFTERWARDS. NO
REGRETS, JUST LESSONS LEARNED.

ALL ROADS LEAD TO ROME
Friends map out a cultural, scenic trip through Italy and France.
By Andrew Northrup

W

e flew into Florence,
Italy, from different
directions, each on a
red-eye flight. I had not seen
Kurt since our circumnavigation
of Ireland the previous year, but
we moved expertly to a waiting
taxi and to the Harley-Davidson®
Speed Shop on Via Pratese,
where our contact, Walter Lenzi,
was waiting.
We arrived during lunchtime
and were immediately reminded
that many establishments close
for this midday period. This
would be our first rule of thumb:
take the time to relax and enjoy
a lunch break. We had pizza and
refreshments directly across the
road from the Harley-Davidson®
dealership, right under the
flight path of an airport runway.
Our route this year was from
Florence to Avignon in southeast
France, then returning to
Florence via a different route,
over a two-and-a-half week
period. I planned out the route,
while Kurt handled the lodging
and food logistics. We would
stay at a different location each
night. It took six months to nail
down the exact route and plans.
The Harley-Davidson®
Authorized Rentals program
was great. Walter Lenzi, the
Concessionaria Ufficiale of the
Harley-Davidson® dealership,
introduced us to our HarleyDavidson® Electra Glide® Ultra
Classic® motorcycles. The bikes
were new, clean, and topped up
with fuel. Helmets were fitted
the following morning when
we filled in the standard rental
agreement. Walter guided us

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FROM THE FIRST DAY,
I WAS SO ENERGIZED –
“I’M ON A HARLEY
MOTORCYCLE, IN ITALY!”
through some basic details
on gas stations, autostradas,
closures, and last minute
route selections, and also
recommended specific routes to
take and sites not to be missed.
His input was very helpful.
Kurt took the lead with his
own Road TechTM zumo 660
GPS Navigator mounted on his
bike and I followed with the
maps for confirmation, keeping
an eye on signage, identifying
villages, cities, and sites along
the route. I chuckled to myself
a few times while en route
to our first stop; it seemed
that all roads do indeed lead
to Rome! We had to stay on
course though.
From the first day, I was so
energized – “I’m on a Harley

motorcycle, in Italy!” – and
this buoyant feeling carried
through to our destination cities
of Siena, Montepulciano, Pisa,
Lucca, and Sestri Levante on
the first leg of our journey. Our
Tuscany experience included
fine dining and wine tasting in
the Piazza del Campo of Siena
with its characteristic shell
shape, a glimpse of which you
can check out in the Palio horse
race in the James Bond movie,
Quantum of Solace.
After our mandatory swim in
the Mediterranean Sea (cold!),
we headed to Genoa and Alba in
the area south of Torino, staying
in the beautiful hilltop village
of La Morra, in the captivating
wine hills of the Piedmont
with a view of the Alps in the

distance. Our destinations, of
course, also included the local
Harley-Davidson® dealerships
of Portofino, Genoa, and Alba.
Marco Ivaldi, Massimo Beghin,
and Gigi Scavino respectively
greeted us and provided
excellent service along with
coffee, bottles of wine, local
patches, and T-shirts as
souvenirs. The various men and
women at the grassroots level
of the dealerships were without
exception enthusiastic and
helpful, and it was a pleasure to
meet them all. It was cool to see
a Project RUSHMORE bike in the
lobby of the Genoa dealership.
The twisting roads led to
tunnels through the Alps,
eventually landing us in the
Principality of Monaco and
Saint-Tropez, France. Prices for
hotels rise steeply in this area,
but dining out while overlooking
the yachts that look like
starships and people-watching
over a pitcher of sangria was
a lot of fun. It was interesting
to hear French, Russian,
German, Romanian, and other
languages being spoken from
all directions. A mock French
police officer stopped cars
with his whistle along a short
restaurant strip with dozens
of small diners, pretending to
race start them with his pistol
in true Inspector Clouseau
fashion. This had everyone
chuckling, including the good
spirited car drivers.
It is always a treat to
see how much attention a
Harley-Davidson® motorcycle
receives. When the bike was

*

parked beside a restaurant
with other scooters, a group
of Russian women, a Dutch
family, a Ukrainian couple, and
a Romanian store manager
all wanted to look at the bike
and touch it. I let them each
sit on it and they thought it
was great. When they found
out I was from Canada, I was
greeted with warm smiles
and a conversation, and even
though the words were only
partially understood, their
meaning was well received and
appreciated.
Southwest France was next
and added more quaintness
to our trip: Gr辿oux-les-Bains,
Avignon, Gap, and St-Paulde-Vence, which was the most
impressive old walled city with
exquisite art and culture, as
well as fine dining. One of the
most interesting rides, however,
was circling the roads around
the Lac de Sainte-Croix, with
its rare 14 per cent road grade,
dozens of switchbacks, and the
dramatic Verdon Gorge, with the
most picturesque views easily
worth the trip to this area of
France. Stopping in the most
remote areas for a coffee and
a baguette was outstanding.
Circling along the roads and
returning to Italy through the
passes and tunnels gave us
our last glimpse of Italian
touring, with the walled city
of Mondovi, the coast of Santa
Margherita, Portofino, and
then back to Florence to finally
return the bikes with a total
distance driven of almost 2,800
kilometres.

THIS WOULD BE OUR FIRST RULE OF
THUMB: TAKE THE TIME TO RELAX
AND ENJOY A LUNCH BREAK

We never did forget our first
rule of thumb: take the time to
relax, enjoy every break, and
have a good meal. Before we
knew it, we were eating our last
dinner by the Ponte Vecchio and
strolling by an old stone church
with Beethoven, T端z端n, Verdi,
and Kodaly on the program, and

watching the Turkish National
Youth Philharmonic Orchestra
perform to the evening crowds
gathering inside. It was a classic
end to this journey and one that
will encourage me to return
to Firenze and rent again from
Walter for another couple of
weeks, perhaps to explore the

winding and smooth motorways
of Northern Italy including Lago
Maggiore, Lago Como and Lago
d'Iseo this time, and the stylish
hotels in this area.
Next up, Spain! If you are
interested, Kurt and I are
planning this trip in May 2014
and we could meet you there!

A rider learns the hard way that protective gear can save your bacon.
By Barrie Sambrook

T

his past summer, along
with two of my best
buddies, I went on a 12day road trip from Vancouver,
British Columbia, through
several western U.S. states.
We decided to make a loop from
Vancouver to Reno, Nevada,
then San Francisco, California,
and then up the coast back
home. Our objective was to
simply “enjoy the ride” and not
be fixed on any special route or
itinerary.
It was smoking hot when we
arrived in Reno! At 43 degrees
Celsius, we were making lots

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of stops to “stay hydrated” and complain to one another about the
heat. We toured the area over the next few days, visiting Virginia City,
Carson City, Lake Tahoe, and innumerable small towns. The winding
roads through the hills were outstanding and the scenery made
keeping your eye on the road a real challenge.
My 12-year-old Harley-Davidson® Heritage Softail™ Classic
motorcycle didn’t mind the heat, and with the exception of a minor
oil leak, performed flawlessly. My riding gear consisted of only the
essentials: t-shirt, jeans, boots, gloves, and helmet. Any less and I
would have been charged with indecent exposure. My two buddies
were wearing the same as I was, but also added the additional
protection of Kevlar-lined riding pants, chaps, and bullet-proof
riding jackets. To say they were hot would be the understatement of
the year. When we arrived at our motel at the end of each day, the
first thing they did (happy hour being the second) was to hang up
their riding gear so the perspiration would have a chance to at least
partially evaporate overnight.

On day nine of our trip, we
were in northern California,
just south of Eureka, when the
weather turned. I had got up
that day and noticed that it was
a bit chilly and that, combined
with a little morning fog, made
me think twice about my “riding
attire”. Now I have to tell you,
I can take the heat, but I can’t
stand getting cold on my ride.
So on top of my normal minimal
riding gear went the heavy
H-D® leather jacket and Kevlar
overpants.

*

across a forestry truck and
did a very strange thing – we
asked for directions. The only
explanation I have is that we
must have been dehydrated.
We were informed by the
ranger that the lighthouse was
no longer there and that our
adventure down the “highway
from hell” had been a bit of a
waste of time. So we continued
on down the road, as we thought
there would be no point in
turning back. We assumed the
road couldn’t get any worse.

lying on its side in the middle
of the road bleeding from
its oil tank and with various
accessories scattered nearby.
From their point of view, they
thought the debris in the middle
of the road was some stuff that
had fallen off the back of a farm
truck. It was only when they saw
me sitting in the gravel looking
not too impressed that they put
two and two together.
My fellow “knights of the
road” were awesome. Biker
Doug attempted first aid and

rumbled down the road to a
farmhouse.
If I had any lingering doubts
about the kindness of people, this
is where they were put to rest.
The folks at the farmhouse invited
us in and helped clean me up.
They offered to take us in their
truck to the nearest H-D® dealer
for repairs and just couldn’t do
enough for us. We ended up at a
motel only 15 minutes away, where
I was able to lick my wounds
with the help of the anaesthetic
provided by the unbroken bottle of

SHORTLY THEREAFTER, MY WORLD WENT SIDEWAYS. THE
HANDLEBARS WENT ALL THE WAY OVER TO THE HARD RIGHT
LOCK POSITION, THE BIKE WENT OVER AND TO THE RIGHT,
AND I BECAME AIRBORNE AND PROCEEDED TO SLIDE
AND BOUNCE DOWN THE ROAD.

We had a great ride that
morning. It was a little chilly but
pleasant, and the road had little
to no traffic. One of the guys
(Biker Doug) had heard of an
old lighthouse on the coast that
he felt was probably well worth
seeing, so off we went down a
road that meandered through
the hills, looping around to the
coast. I got the impression that
the state of California had paved
this road in the 1920s, painted a
line down the middle, and done
little to maintain it ever since.
We were constantly swerving
to avoid potholes, and after
an hour we had gone perhaps
40 kilometres. Too committed
to turn back and ever hopeful
that the old lighthouse was
just around the next corner, we
continued on, ever-mindful that
this was part of our “adventure”.
A few minutes later we came

After about another half-hour
of riding and with yours truly
leading the pack, I approached
a corner that was tagged as a
“slow to 25 kilometres per hour”.
With our experience on this road,
I knew that they probably meant
it, and dropped down a couple of
gears and cautiously went into
the corner. To my surprise, it
wasn’t all that bad, and as I came
out of the curve I began to roll on
the throttle.
Shortly thereafter, my world
went sideways. The handlebars
went all the way over to the
hard right lock position, the bike
went over and to the right, and I
became airborne and proceeded
to slide and bounce down the
road. I can remember sitting
in the gravel wondering what
had happened and seeing my
two buddies coming around the
corner. My dream machine was

Biker Dan directed traffic.
My biggest concern was to get
the bike off to the side of the
road before something came
around the corner and added
to the carnage. Fortunately,
some people stopped and we
collectively got my bike back on
its feet and off to the side of the
road. The boys tell me I was in
shock and they insisted I sit at
the side of the road for half an
hour to regain my composure.
It must have been my time
spent in the Boy Scouts and the
“always be prepared” mentality,
but I had packed several bungee
cords in my saddlebags. With
these wrapped around the lights
and the windshield to hold
them in place, I hit the starter.
God bless Harley-Davidson®
motorcycles! As if to say “Sorry
I let you down; let’s get out of
here,” she started, and off we

Scotch in my saddlebag. My lefthand glove had been shredded and
there were lots of abrasions on my
leather jacket. I had bruised knees,
a few scratches, cuts on my face,
and a couple of chipped teeth.
I suppose there should be a
moral to this story and lessons
in it for all of us. Once I got
home, I ordered some new
gloves as well as Kevlar-lined
jeans. The jeans I wear if it gets
“too hot”. If it’s not, I wear the
jeans and the over-pants. Maybe
this is a bit of an overreaction,
but that’s ok. I was very lucky,
and who says I’m too old to
learn a lesson?
By the way, two months
later I traded in the HarleyDavidson® Heritage Softail™
Classic motorcycle for a new
Road King® model. So far, so
good, and hoping to keep the
shiny side up!

amed historian David
McCullough wrote,
“History is who we are
and why we are the way we
are”. When it comes to the
history of the Harley-Davidson
Motor Company, “who” we are
is very well documented. The
“why”, however, can be a little
more elusive.
That’s what makes the
new Project RUSHMORE
exhibit at the Harley-Davidson
Museum™ so unique and
exciting. Never before has the
history of new motorcycles
been told at the time of their
release. Because never before
has the “how” and “why” of
their development been so
historic in themselves. It’s a
big story. And preserving it
would prove more ambitious
than a frame change or new
engine.
For almost any given
motorcycle in the history of
Harley-Davidson, the basic
facts are easily gathered.
These include years a bike
was offered, production
numbers, etc. But documented
information on how and why
a motorcycle was developed
rarely trickles through.
There are clues, such as in a
decades-old speech by Walter
Davidson to stockholders:
“Our dealers were asking for a
motorcycle with more power”.
But, that’s about it.
The roots of Project
RUSHMORE improvements
are well documented and
will be historically preserved
on an unprecedented scale.
A video now in the Archives
collection shows Customers

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hog® magazine canada

at the 105th Anniversary, in
2008, providing feedback on
hand controls. Those insights
helped designers create the
revolutionary new infotainment
interface.

*

And as one ventures further
into the Project RUSHMORE
story, other similar stories
emerge, often with more of a
human element. For instance,
during the development of

HISTORY IS WHO WE ARE AND WHY
WE ARE THE WAY WE ARE
musical tastes. Another unique
aspect of the Project is the
number of prototype parts
its development generated.
These include countless
parts produced through SLS
(Selective Laser Sintering,
a form of 3D printing)
prototyping, which uses CAD
drawings to produce an exact,
full size, three-dimensional
part.
By preserving so many
important details, it should
be easy for future motorcycle
riders to understand not just
“what” happened to bring
about Project RUSHMORE
motorcycles, but also “how”
and “why”. The HarleyDavidson Museum™ is
currently displaying the story
of Project RUSHMORE in the
Design Lab Gallery. To learn
more, go to h-dmuseum.com.

1

2

the Boom!™ Box infotainment
system, some engineers had
to repeatedly hear the song
“Daylight” (by pop indie duo
Matt & Kim), a blessing or
curse depending on your

3

1) The Harley-Davidson Museum™ “Design
Lab” gallery has been updated to tell the story
of the development of Project RUSHMORE.
®
2) A display compares a 1976 Electra Glide
motorcycle, fully appointed, with the new 2014
FLHTK Ultra Limited motorcycle. 3) A virtual
simulation of the bike’s aerodynamics. The
colourful ribbons denote not just direction but
differing turbulence levels of the various air
flows around the motorcycle.

Here’s the first look at the new HOG® Magazine Canada Staff Photographer Pin.
How do you get one for your collection? Any member who submits a photo with a
written accompaniment that gets published in HOG® Magazine Canada will earn
this new piece of hardware.

Google Play
& Apple
App Store

What are you waiting for? Get out your camera and send your quality, motorcyclerelated photographs to HOG® Magazine Canada at editor@hogcanada.ca.
Note: We accept only high-resolution digital images. Required 300 DPI resolution, (at
least 4" x 6"). Pins are awarded only to the sender of the photo – not to the original
photographer or subject of the photo.

orn in 1966, I grew up
with a sister and three
brothers, two of whom
had motorcycles. I was the
tomboy of the family. We were
raised by the most wonderful
parents in a beautiful town with
lots of love, joy, health, friends,
and cats.
In 1988 at the age of 22, I
came home one day to realize
that my new neighbour, Claude,
had just bought himself a new
Harley-Davidson® Heritage
Softail™ Classic motorcycle
with a beautiful red and cream
paint job. Noticing me noticing
him, he asked me if I would like
to have a ride. “Of course,”
I replied.
Wow, all the memories
suddenly came back to me.
I remembered the fun of riding
with my older brothers when I
was younger, when I would sit
on the gas tank!
Life suddenly got busier
for me: a new job, a new town
and thus, my friendship with
Claude was temporarily put on
hold for the next three years.
In 1991, my new life wasn’t
so new and wonderful after
all, and I’d moved back to my
parents’ home. Noticing my
old buddy Claude was still in
the neighbourhood with a new
Harley® motorcycle (this time it
was black and cream), I asked
him what had happened to the
red one. It had been stolen that
year, but he had a brand-new
one, same model, same year,
but different colour. Something
felt different between us this
time; he felt it too, and asked
me out on a date. After a few

66

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®

dates, he made it clear that I
shouldn’t expect him to fall in
love with me: “I’m a dreamer,
not a lover, you know.” Oh well,
that makes two of us, I replied!
Let’s just see how far this
relationship will go.
My very first road trip was
to Old Orchard Beach, Maine,
sitting on the back of the
Heritage Softail™ motorcycle.
Luggage, tent, sleeping bag,
headband … we felt like two
real hippies. Dirt and freedom
– hurray! On our way back, all
I could think of was one day
owning my own motorcycle.
Soon after, my dreamer,
Claude, taught me how to ride.
Fast forward 22 years. In

*

“I’M A DREAMER, NOT
A LOVER, YOU KNOW.”
OH WELL, THAT MAKES
TWO OF US, I REPLIED!
that time, I’ve owned a 1992
H-D® Sportster® 883 Hugger™
motorcycle, a 2003 H-D® Dyna®
Low Rider® motorcycle, and
just this past year, I purchased
the bike of my dreams: a 2012
Harley‑Davidson® Heritage
Softail™ Classic motorcycle
with a beautiful red and cream

paint job. And yes, in case
you were wondering, I’m still
in a relationship with my old
neighbour, Claude. For you,
my lover, my friend, my bum,
and my dreamer: thank you
for giving me this beautiful
life. I wouldn’t want it any
other way.

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